On Credit

http://www.hemifoundation.org/

http://www.prayforjessie.org/

This past Sunday, I finally got to go back to church and it felt really good. When I drove up to New River Fellowship, near Aledo, It just felt like being home again. Unfortunately it wasn't the whole family, because Kristi was up at the hospital, and Matt was off at Church Camp. But Jake, Josh, and I sat together and bonded as we listened to The Word and a great lesson on what a church should be. Quite frankly, I think that the twins couldn't wait til it was over so thy could play their DS game...oh well, I enjoyed being back.

Now I know that the Building is not "the church". I know that the church is the congregation, the mission, the dedication to our Lord, and so much more. But nevertheless, it felt good to be under that roof. It felt more "official" as I sat there and prayed in silence and thanked God for all that He has done for Jessie and our family over the past months. I praised Him for the many wonderful and amazing things that I saw in Baltimore. God has heard me thank Him and praise Him many times over the past few months (many time per day), but this simply felt more formal and ceremonious, because I was back at New River. The hospital PICU or Rehab just doesn't exude the same atmosphere.

Anyway, before I got to church that morning, I decided that I was going to dedicate that service to thanking and praising God for getting Jessie and our family through the past two months. I still listened to Pat Kelley's message, but every chance I got, I closed my eyes and gave our Father in heaven the credit for everything that has happened. He did some wonderful things and I praised Him for the wonders that He showed us.

It's kind of interesting when you think about it, but when you thank someone, you are giving them credit. You are saying "You did something and I appreciate it." I guess when you thank God, you are giving Him the credit too. Or as most would say, "giving God the Glory".

You have to excuse me, I'm not too good at church speak. I'm so glad that I can pray silently, because I'm quite sure people would be amused at what I tell God. Don't get me wrong. I very much admire those that can pray and speak aloud about the Glory of God. I find myself so captivated by their ability to put it into beautiful words, but I unfortunately don't have that gift.

So, after the service was over, I felt a deep calm. I felt like that I was finally able to officially give God the Glory in which He is worthy. Maybe it was the music. Maybe it was the message. Maybe it was getting a good night sleep finally. I think that maybe it was God saying "your welcome". I don't really know, but I was at peace.

I hope that all of you who have prayed for Jessie and for others in need feel the same kind of peace as I do. We so much appreciate your prayers. The power of prayer, combined with the God given talents that each of us are blessed with is an incredible force.

I know that Jessie has a long road ahead of her, but I also know that prayer will help her through the toughest of times.

God Bless all of you who have prayed for Jessie and who have kept up with her story. We are deeply touched.

Cris

P.S. Here is a really cool video that what passed on to me by a friend. It is really fun to watch. Thanks Mel. http://www.mychurch.org/blog/30635/coolest-video-ever

http://www.hemifoundation.org/

http://www.prayforjessie.org/